Plenty of fast food restaurants litter the town, although not as many in the downtown area.

Plenty of fast food restaurants litter the town, although not as many in the downtown area.

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*'''Clumpie's''', (423) 267-5425. A great little ice cream shop located on Frazier Avenue in the heart of the Northshore.

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*'''Clumpie's''', 26B Frazier Avenue, 267-5425, [http://www.clumpies.com/]. A great little ice cream shop located on Frazier Avenue in the heart of the Northshore.

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*'''Bea's Restaurant'''.

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*'''Nikki's Drive Inn'''.

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*'''Nikki's Drive Inn''', 899 Cherokee Blvd, 265-9015. (''Right outside the tunnels, 2 minutes from Market Street'') Great hush puppies and short-order food. A Chattanooga institution for more than 20 years.

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*'''Bea's Restaurant''', 4500 Dodds Avenue, 867-3618. A little off the beaten path, Bea's offers ''real'' home cooking. Take a seat at a table, any table, occupied or not, and start grabbing what you'd like off the lazy susan in the center of the table.

Understand

During the American Civil War Chattanooga was a major rail hub and at the center of a number of pitched battles. These battles are remembered through numerous battlefield parks and Civil War attractions located in and around the city.

In more modern times, the city has received national recognition for the renaissance of its once dilapidated downtown and redevelopment of its riverfront. An early cornerstone of this project was the restoration of the historic Walnut Street Bridge, which is now the world's longest pedestrian bridge.

Within the last ten years the city has won 3 national awards for outstanding "livability", and 9 Gunther Blue Ribbon Awards for excellence in housing and consolidated planning.

As of the census of 2000, there are 155,554 people, 65,499 households, and 39,626 families residing in the city. There are 72,108 housing units at an average density of 205.9/km² (533.3/mi²). The racial makeup of the city is 59.71% White, 36.06% African American, 0.29% Native American, 1.54% Asian. 2.11% of the population are Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Get in

By plane

There is regular air service through the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport. (CHA) The airport is located east of downtown Chattanooga and you can easily get transport from the airport to local hotels.

Gold Point Yacht Harbor, just off the Tennessee River at mile marker 472, 622-1978, [8]. Constructed in 2001 and nestled into a picturesque cove. All business for Gold Point Yacht Harbor is conducted from the marina office located at the Chickamauga Marina.

By Bus

CARTA (Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority) provides a FREE Downtown Electric Shuttle and it is the easiest way to move around downtown Chattanooga. Service operates about every five (5) minutes as follows:

6:00 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. on Weekdays

9:00 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. on Saturdays

9:00 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. on Sundays

The Downtown Electric Shuttle operates between Shuttle Park South (located next to the Holiday Inn Choo-Choo) and Shuttle Park North (located next to the Tennessee Aquarium with a number of convienent stops along the way.

There are also buses servicing the remainder of the city for a fare: (Exact change required!)

Main Line

Adult - $1.00

Seniors - $.50

Persons with Disability - $.50

Students - $.50

Children 5 and under are free with a paying passenger

CARTA schedules are available at many of the local banks, shopping malls, social service agencies, hospitals, colleges, universities, the downtown post office, libraries and through CARTA.

See

Attractions

Lookout Mountain at sunset as seen from downtown Chattanooga

Rock City, 1400 Patton Road (Located approximately 6 miles from downtown), telephone 1-800-854-0675. [15] Located on Lookout Mountain, Rock City has been an attraction in some form or another since 1823. However, not until Garnet Carter, inventor of Miniature Golf, and his wife opened Rock City Gardens in 1932 it was not a huge draw. Carter hired Clark Byers to travel the nation's highways, offering to paint farmer's barns in exchange for letting them paint "See Rock City" on them. Rock City Gardens features a 4100ft walking trail, a 90 foot waterfall, a 180-foot long suspension bridge, and Lover's Leap where you can "see seven states." Open year round, except Christmas Day, at 8:30am. From the middle of November until the end of the year, they have the "Enchanted Garden of Lights" from 6pm - 9pm which features local school/church groups performing and the entire gardens decorated in holiday lights. Adult admission is $12.95, Children ages 3 - 12 are $6.95, 2 and under are free. Combination tickets covering Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline are available at any of the three attractions.

Ruby Falls, 1720 South Scenic Highway, telephone 821-2544. [16] This thundering 145 foot waterfall inside Lookout Mountain has been a popular attraction since 1929. Named after the founder's wife, Ruby Falls was found by Leo Lambert in 1923 as he and his corporation were drilling a shaft to open the historic Lookout Mountain Cave to the public. During the drilling, a small opening was located and after a 17 hour trip, Leo emerged with tales of beautiful rock formations and a spectacular waterfall. Parking is on-site, attended and free. Allow approximately two hours for your visit. Those with closterphobia may be a little unnerved by the elevator ride into the caverns. No strollers are permitted and the cave tour is not wheelchair accessible. Ruby Falls is open from 8am - 8pm (except Christmas Day), the attraction is weatherproof and 60 degrees year round. Adult admission is $12.95, Children ages 3 - 12 are $5.95, 2 years and under are free. Combination tickets covering Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline are available at any of the three attractions.

Incline Railway, 3917 St Elmo (Near Interstate 24), telephone 821-4224. [17] In November of 1895, the Incline in its second incarnation made its first ascent up Lookout Mountain on what is the steepest passenger incline in the world. Renovation in that was completed in 1986 has brought the station back to its orginal splendor. Travelling at a 72.7% grade, the trolly-styled cars pass at the midpoint of the 45 minute one-way trip. After arriving at the upper station, a short walk will take you to Point Park where a spectacular view of Mocassin Bend and the Tennessee River await you. Adult admission, round trip, is $10.00. Children, ages 3 -12, $5.00. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the Incline is open from 8:30am to 9:30pm; During April, May, September, and October from 9:00am to 6:00pm; and from November through March, from 10:00am to 6:00pm.

Chattanooga Choo Choo[18], Erected in 1908 with a magnificent dome rising majestically over the concourse, the Terminal Station served thousands of passengers until 1970 when the trains stopped running. In 1973, after a 4 million dollar renovation, it was reopened to the public. The dome room was converted into a huge dining hall, the "Station House", complete with singing waiters and waitresses. Authentic sleeper cars have been furnished as unique sleeping quarters.

Tennessee Aquarium as seen from the Market Street Bridge

Holiday Inn welcomed the hotel into its family in 1989 after another 4 million dollars were invested. The dome is decorated with magnificant colors and it stunning when lit up at night.

Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad Street, (Which has become the center of tourism in Downtown Chattanooga), telephone 1-800-262-0695. [19] The Tennessee Aquarium features two buildings, "Ocean Journey" and "River Journey." The River Journey focuses on freshwater environments, carrying you through mountains forests, swamps, valley and lakes, both in the Tennessee Valley and throughout the world. Some of the special attractions are the seahorses and otters. The Ocean Journey building, a recent addition to the campus, offers opportunity to touch stingrays, visit a butterfly garden and see sharks. Both buildings stand out in the skyline with their pitched glass roofs and have become a popular landmark for photographers. Expect to tour for at least two and a half hours, more during the summer. During the summer, hours are extended and tickets are time-stamped. Purchasing tickets in advance during the summer months (or even all year) is an extremely good idea. Not only are they cheaper, you can also plan on an entry time. Combination tickets for the Aquarium, IMAX and Creative Discovery Museum are available. First admittance at 10am and last at 6pm, outside of summer months.

IMAX 3D Theater, 201 Chestnut Street, 266-4629, [20]. (Just across the street from the Tennessee Aquarium) This six-story high IMAX 3D Theater features two 3D films that change regularly, often themed closely to the latest special attraction at the Aquarium. Currently showing Sharks 3D and Wild Safari 3D, this IMAX does not show any feature films. Tickets purchased at the box office may not be for an immediate showing, so advance purchases are best for planning purposes. Single movie tickets are $7.95 for Adults, $5.50 for Children 3-12. Double Feature tickets are $11.95 and $8.50. Combination tickets for the Aquarium, IMAX and Creative Discovery Museum are available.

Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park, 1101 McCallie Avenue, (2 miles from downtown Chattanooga) telephone 697-1322. [21] Also referred to as the "Warner Park Zoo", it is located on 6 acres in the middle of Warner Park. March – October the park is open 9am – 5pm, everyday, November – February 10am – 5pm, everyday, and closed New Years Day, Christmas Day, Martin Luther King Day, and Thanksgiving Day. Admission is $6 for Adults, $4 for Seniors, $3 for Children Age 3 - 15.

Museums

International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum, 3315 Broad Street, 267-3132. [22] The museum can be found on the right in a blue and white building as you drive toward the mountain, a short drive from downtown. Chattanooga was chosen as the site of the museum because the first wrecker was built here at the Ernest Holmes Company. You'll find dozens of antique tow trucks and pictures of Hall of Famers. Admission is $8 for adults, $7 for Seniors 55 and older, $4 for Children 6 - 18, and free for children 5 and under.

Hunter Museum of American Art. [24] Perched on an 80-foot bluff on the edge of the Tennessee River, the Hunter Museum of American Art offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains. This panorama is equaled only by the exceptional collection of American art inside recognized as one of the country's finest. Open M, Tu, Fr and Sa 10am - 5pm; W 12pm - 5pm; Th 10am - 9pm;Closed Wednesdays Labor Day through Memorial Day. Admission is $7 for Adults, $3.50 Children 3 - 12.

Children's Discovery Museum, Corner of Chestnut and 4th, 756-2738. [25] Search for Lost Dinosaur Bones, Take Apart Stuff That Works, Create Your Own Music, Walk Through A Picture, and Play with the Water Works! The Children's Discovery Museum isn't just for children, although it was designed for them in mind. There are lots of interactive exhibits here, enough to keep even the most hyperactive of kids entertained. Revolving exhibits, such as "Richard Scarry's Busytown" and "Good Grief! Charlie Brown" keep the museum fresh for multiple visits. The CDM was voted as one of the top 20 children's museums in the nation by Child magazine. Plan on spending approximately 2 hours in the museum. Admission is $7.95 for adults and $6.95 children ages 2 - 12. tickets for the Aquarium, IMAX and Creative Discovery Museum are available.

Area Parks and Greenspaces

Coolidge Park. This park features a beautifully restored carousel, a pavilion, an interactive play fountain, and lots of open space where the Navy and Marine Reserve Center once stood. A short walk across the Walnut Street Bridge allows visitors to enjoy Chattanooga's most popular park. It is part of the Tennessee Riverpark, a 22 mile long public park along the Tennessee River.

Walnut Street Bridge at Night

Coolidge park is also a Wi-Fi Hotspot thanks to the City of Chattanooga and AirNet Group.Watch the activity in Coolidge park through an entire day/night cycle of June 9 and 10, 2003. (Requires Windows Media Player)

Walnut Street Bridge. The renovation of this 113-year old historic bridge as a linear pedestrian park was completed in May 1993. It is the oldest and largest surviving truss bridge in the South. The Walnut Street Bridge was condemned and slated for demolition when local citizens convinced the City of Chattanooga to commit the funds earmarked for the bridge’s demolition to its restoration, providing the balance of the renovation cost could be raised. As the World's longest pedestrian bridge it serves as the link between downtown Chattanooga and the now thriving Northshore District.

Renaissance Park. Another Northshore park. Adjacent to Coolidge Park, this 23 acre urban wetland park is a product of Chattanooga's 21st Century Waterfront project. Plans are underway to create an outdoor center to promote outdoor activities in the Chattanooga area, as well as a nature trail through the park.

Tennessee River Walk. A continuous 10 mile path stretching from Ross's Landing in the heart of downtown Chattanooga to the Tennessee Riverpark and the Chickamauga Dam, stopping various times along the way to open up into picnic areas. Start the trail in any number of places along Amnicola Highway, Riverside Drive, or Downtown. This linear greenway continues to grow and expand through several different projects.

Ross's Landing. A site of great signifigance for its relavence in Cherokee Indian and Chattanooga history, Ross's Landing has recently been renovated, adding a large pier, natural amphitheatre and a large greenspace. Wrapping underneath Riverfront Parkway is a unique water feature for vistors to cool off in. Several mooring posts are available for boaters to make a stop off at this beautiful space.

Miller Park, 910 Market Street. The park, one-acre in the middle of downtown, is very popular with the downtown lunch crowd. It has an outdoor amphitheater, a large fountain and beautiful grassy areas. Homeless people are known to relax in the shade here and a number of mission organizations stop here to offer free lunches to them. Some residents have complained that these free lunches bring more homeless to the park area, but the ones that do frequent the area tend to leave well enough alone. Panhandling or begging is rare.

Miller Plaza, 850 Market Street. Directly across from Miller Park is a pavillion, outdoor stage and a fountain. This site is used a couple of regular, free concert series: "Nightfall" and "Rhythm & Noon." The Nightfall series [26], held each Friday evening from May through September, is extremely popular, especially with area bikers, but it is still a very friendly crowd. Rhytmh & Noon [27] is held every Friday from May through August. Miller Plaza is also a WiFi hotspot sponser by the City of Chattanooga and AirNet Group.

Chattanooga Nature Center, 400 Garden Road, telephone 821-1160. [28] Established in 1979, the Chattanooga Nature Center includes a 1400 foot boardwalk meandering through seasonal wetland and lowland forest. The CNC sponsers summer camps each year and space is always limited. They are open M-S from 9am to 5pm. Admission is $6 for adults, $3 for children ages 4 - 11 and seniors 65+. The CNC is only minutes from Downtown Chattanooga and it is well worth the trip.

Reflection Riding, Located at the Chattanooga Nature Center, 821-9582. [29] This 300-acre arboretum, botanical garden and historic site located on Lookout Mountain. Open M-Sa from 9am to 5pm year round and on Sundays from 1pm to 5pm March through October. The seasons are most evident as your travel through the grounds, with summer's wildflowers and autumn's changing of colors. There are also rental facilities available on the acreage, perfect for parties, weddings or other occasions. Cost of admission is $6 per car, or you can pay per individual for admission to both Relfection Riding and the Chattanooga Nature Center.

Other Sights

Chattanooga National Cemetery, 1200 Bailey Avenue, 855-6590, [30]. Initially designated as a national cemetery "in commemoration of the Battles of Chattanooga, Nov. 23 - 27, 1863" by Maj. Gen. Geroge H. Thomas on Christmas Day of 1863. In addition to Cival War veterans, there are 78 German prisoners of war from World War I, the largest number of German POWs interred in the United States. The 120 acre cemetery was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1996 and it features one of five memorial entrance archways built in national cemeteries. The archway approaches 40 feet in height. A number of other monuments have been erected throughout the cemetery.

Do

Climb the Walnut Street Bridge Climbing Wall. Inside Coolidge Park, 266-5709 (The Adventure Guild). Climb on one of the limestone towers that supports the Walnut Street Bridge. Located within Coolidge Park, the wall is open sesonally to the general public and for groups on a reservation basis. There are as many as 30 distinct climbing routes perfect for novices to experienced climbers. All equipment is provided! From April through Novemeber, the wall is open Friday 6pm - 9pm, Saturday 1pm - 9pm, and Sunday 1pm - 5pm. The price for open climbing $5 per-hour-per-person with a three climb minimum or $15 for the entire day, with the capability to come and go as you'd like.

Ride the Carousel in Coolidge Park. All of the various animals represented on the carousel were hand carved in St. Elmo, a historic neighborhood in Chattanooga. The carousel is 50 cents for children 12 or under and Seniors 55 or over. There are no wet clothes allowed on the carousel since it is all hand craved wood.

Play in the fountain at Coolidge Park. If you've got kids, be sure to bring them either a change of clothes or a swimsuit as the fountain is nearly irresitable. If they are still is diapers, swim diapers are required. Water spouting animals ring the fountain area and are fair game for climbing. Adults have been known to throughly enjoy playing in the water as well...

Walk the Riverwalk. Enjoy the natural beautiful of Chattanooga's riverfront by taking a walk down it's linear greenspace. This project has drawn and inspired civic leaders from around the country. Take a picnic lunch and slip under the shade to watch time pass you by in one of any number of pinic areas along the way.

Get Married at the Grandview. Telephone 706-820-7920. Located near Rock City Gardens, 1700 feet above sea level, the Grandview is a 4100sq foot Tudor style house that is perfect for special events! The amazing view will certainly add to any event, especially those shots of the newlywed couple looking out over the city of Chattanooga. The Grandview is also available for meetings and other such activities. On-site overnight accommodations are also available at Chanticleer, a beautiful mountain stone inn.

Take a ride on the Southern Belle Riverboat - 201 Riverfront Parkway, Pier 2, telephone 266-4488 or 800-766-2784. The Southern Belle is a lovely paddlewheel boat that cruises the Tennessee River near Chattanooga. Lunch, Dinner or just sightseeing cruises are available. The "Dixeland Dinner Cruise" features fantastic slow-cooked prime rib, shrimp creole and live music. Starting in mid-October, the Fall Leaf Cruises begin allowing you to take a ride up the river and marvel at the changing colors of the trees. The Riverboat is also available for private parties, including the opportunity to be wed on the promenade deck. Sight seeing cruises are $12 for Adults, and $5.25 for Children ages 3 - 12. Lunch Cruises, $17 for Adults and $8 for Children, and the Dinner Cruise is $31 for Adults, $17 for Children. Expect to spend between 1 hour and 2 1/2 hours on the river, depending on your cruise type.

Attend the Annual Riverbend Festival - Telephone 756-2211. An annual nine-day music festival that just celebrated its 25th year that consumes the riverfront part of downtown. 6 stages, including one on a barge, and vendors are set up all over the area. Don't expect big, crazy headliners, though - the organizers of the festival have said time and time again that they bring in acts that A) They can afford and B) Will make the majority of the attendees happy. Some nights can get a little rowdy, as this is the south and beer certainly is popular, but the local Sheriff's Department and Police Department bring out their finest to keep things safe. For fans of the blues, be sure to check out the Bessie Smith Strut, which features great blues artists and the town's finest BBQ. The 2006 Riverbend Festival will be June 9 - 17.

See a Chattanooga Lookouts baseball game at Bellsouth Park - 201 Power Alley (Less than a block from the Aquarium), Box Office Telephone 267-4849, Office Telephone 267-2208. The Chattanooga Lookouts, an AA farm team for the Cincinnati Reds, have moved from Historic Engle Stadium into the brand new, $10 million dollar, Bellsouth Park. The brick walled stadium sits on Hawk Hill and offers the majority of their seating along the first base line. General Admission is $4 for Adults, $2 for Seniors 55+ and Children 7 - 12, with children 6 and under getting in free. Upper Box Seats are $5 and Lower Box Seats are $8. If you really want to spluge, skyboxes are available as well: 14 seats for $275, 32 for $425 per night.

Enjoy Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park - Lakeview Drive, Rossville, GA. (Almost literally just over the state line) Telephone 1-877-525-3946. Lake Winnie, as its referred to amongst the locals, has been putting smiles on faces for 80 years. With rides for the whole family and concerts featuring famous country artists, Lake Winnie is open Thursday through Sunday from late April through early August. They are also open on weekends in the beginning of April and after the end of the summer season into September. Gate Admission, required of everyone, is $3. An unlimited ride pass, the best deal, is $19. You can, however, pick up individual ride tickets for $.80 each or a strip of 14 for $10. Each ride ranges from 2 to 5 tickets. (All prices listed for the 2005 season) All guests under 21 must accompanied by a parent or adult chaperone - it seems that too many people were just dropping their kids off.

Explore the Raccoon Mountain Caverns - 319 West Hills Drive, telephone 821-9403 or 800-823-2267. Visit Raccoon Mountain's 5 1/2 miles of explored and mapped passageways in the Lookout Valley either on a 45 minute, come-as-you-are walking tour or on a deeper cave expedition. The front portion of the cave, the Crystal Palace, is where you'll take a guided walking tour. Admission for this trip is $11 for Adults (13 - 64), $10 for Seniors (65+), and $5.50 for Children (5 - 12). The "wild cave" tours have a number of different packages, prices and times. They range from 1 hour to 8 hours, even overnight if you'd like and from $25 to $100 per person, with discounts for groups. All equipment, lights, helmets, pads, and gloves, are part your wild cave admission. The caves are open year round except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, rain or shine. (Its underground, ya know...)

Play Mini Golf at Sir Gooney's Family Fun Center - 5918 Brainerd Road, telephone 892-5922. The mini-golf is great, but don't limit yourself to just that! They've got two mini-golf courses, three go-karts, paintball, bumper boats, batting cages, karaoke, lazer tag and an arcade! Each attraction has it's own price, but expect to spend between $2 and $14 per attraction. As they say, "Fun for all ages!"

Learn

Universities and Colleges

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, 615 McCallie Avenue, [31]. A public university, UTC is the second largest campus in the University of Tennessee system.

Chattanooga State Technical Community College, [32]. A public institution.

Non-Conventional Institutions

Mia Cucina-The Place for Cooks, 307 North Market Street, telephone 423-265-4474. [37] Offering several cooking classes per month, with the majority of them starting at 6:30pm. Private classes for groups are also available. Students receive a 10% discount on merchandise the day of their class, as well.

Work

There are two shopping malls within the city, Hamilton Place Mall and Northgate Mall, each near tenant capacity.

Shopping

You'd be at a loss if you didn't at least get one postcard with "See Rock City" on it!

East Ridge Flea Market, 6725 Ringgold Road, 894-3960, [41]. Located in nearby East Ridge, just off of Interstate 75, the East Ridge Flea Market is one of Tennessee's largest indoor flea markets. Featuring over 200 vendors, you nearly guaranteed to find a bargin. Free parking and air conditioned. Open every Sa and Su from 9am - 6pm.

Northshore District

Located on the North shore of the Tennessee River, just across from downtown Chattanooga, Northshore represents a great triumph in city growth and development. What was once a street of abandoned buildings and run-down homes has become one of the city's focus points. Mixed business/residential development is underway, bringing even more people to the area. Coolidge Park, one of the city's most popular greenspaces, is the centerpiece of the Northshore District. The renovation of the Walnut Street Bridge as a pedistrian bridge is also herladed as part of the dramatic growth in the area. Frazier Avenue is considered to be the "Main Street" of this area and as such, many unique businesses are located here.

Rock Creek Outfitters, 100 Tremont Street (Corner of Tremont and Frazier), telephone 265-5969, [42]. (Other locations at 2200 Hamilton Place Blvd, 191 River Street, and in Ocoee, TN. The River Street location, 2 minutes from the main store, specializes in kayaks and canoes.) Founded in 1987, this is one of Chattanooga's premier outdoor supply stores. With a large list of top quality brand names and highly knowledgable staff, Rock Creek can get you into the best stuff out of doors in the Chattanooga Area. Open M-Sa 10a - 6p and Su 1p-5p.

Eat

Budget

Plenty of fast food restaurants litter the town, although not as many in the downtown area.

Clumpie's, 26B Frazier Avenue, 267-5425, [43]. A great little ice cream shop located on Frazier Avenue in the heart of the Northshore.

Nikki's Drive Inn, 899 Cherokee Blvd, 265-9015. (Right outside the tunnels, 2 minutes from Market Street) Great hush puppies and short-order food. A Chattanooga institution for more than 20 years.

Bea's Restaurant, 4500 Dodds Avenue, 867-3618. A little off the beaten path, Bea's offers real home cooking. Take a seat at a table, any table, occupied or not, and start grabbing what you'd like off the lazy susan in the center of the table.

Mid-range

Downtown

Mom's Italian Villa, 1257 Market Street (near the Chattanooga Choo Choo), 266-2204. This quant little restaurant has been in this location for over 20 years, weathering several incarations of the neighborhood. Serving "Italian" cuisine from Mom - a southern belle! The story is, Mom's restaurant was once southern home cooking until a boyfriend of hers turned her on to Italian food. The new menu stayed and the boyfriend didn't! Mom is pretty advanced in age these days, but don't be surprised if you see her around the kitchen. The restaurant shows some wear, but the food is great. Expect to spend around $7 per person. It may take a few trips, but you've got to have the muffuletta, raviloi, lasagna, and of course the pizza! The best part is dredging your crispy gralic bread through the house dressing on the antipasta salad. Open M - F, 11am to 9pm and 1230 to 9pm on Sa. Be sure to call, though, sometimes when its slow, they'll close up shop early. Lunch, though, is usually hopping! Casual, family dining.

Sushi Nabe of Kyoto, 634-0171, [44]. Some of the best Sushi in Chattanooga. Located inside Coolidge Park, this restaurant is extremely convienent and serves fantastic food. Not only is traditional sushi available, but also simplier fare such as Chicken Tarayaki. If you're eating sushi, keep in mind that rolls are 6 pieces and Nigiri are 2. The bill at the end of the meal depends on how much and what you ate! Casual, family dining. Open 7 days.

Sticky Fingers, [45]. Some of the best BBQ in Chattanooga! Top rated ribs: Memphis Style Wet, Memphis Style Dry, Tennessee Whiskey, Habanero Hot, Carolina Sweet. Average price of $10. Two locations in Chattanooga, one downtown in Jack's Alley at 420 Broad Street, the other on the perimeter of Hamilton Place Mall. Contact the Downtown restaurant at 265-RIBS, Hamilton Place at 899-RIBS. Casual, family dining. Open 7 days.

Big River Grille & Brewing Works, 222 Broad Street, 267-2739. Located in a large, renovated warehouse only a 1/2 block from the Tennessee Aquarium, Big River is a part of the Gordon Biersch family. The restaurant, separated from the main bar by a beautiful brick wall, features an amazing menu with an average price of $15. Expect it to be very busy on summer weekends. Patio seating available. Casual, family dining. Open 7 days.

Durty Nelly's, A Grand Irish Pub, 109 N Market Street, 265-9970, [46]. A little piece of Ireland, found right in the Northshore district of Chattanooga. Modelled after the orginal Durty Nelly's of Country Clare, step in to fine draught Guinness Stout, malt whiskeys, traditional dishes and music. Daily specials and regular performances by local groups to keep you coming back. Tucked off the street in a shopping center, just up the street from the intersection of Market and Frazier. Casual, family dining. Open 7 days.

Out of The Blue Bakery Cafe. Located in the center at the Riverpark on Amnicola. In addition to delicious sandwiches, pick up a kite for a flight through the park! Casual, family dining.

River Street Deli, 151 River Street (in the heart of the Northshore in Coolidge Park), 756-3354. A New York Deli sitting in Coolidge Park. These fantastic deli sandwiches from an actual New Yorker are perfect fare for a day lounging in the park. Open for lunch M-Sa, but if you can squeeze a reservation, you may be lucky enough to attend on of the famous themed dinners on a Friday night! Casual, family dining.

Pisa Pizza, 551 River Street, 756-7492, [48]. Established in 1999 near what was to become Coolidge Park, Pisa Pizza has 38 toppings, 5 pasta dishes and 6 different hot hoagies to serve you in its' Chattanooga decorated dining room. In you plan on dining often, be sure to pick up their punch card - your 11th pizza is free. Featuring lunch specials from 11am to 2pm, they are open seven days a week. M-Th, 11am - 10pm, F 11am - 11pm and Sa 12pm - 9pm. Casual, family dining.

Mellow Mushroom, 205 Broad Street, 266-5564, [49]. Part of the Atlanta based chain featuring Spring Water based dough and excellent ingredients. Located next to the Bijou Movie Theater and less than a block from the Aquarium, the 60s and 70s themed pizziria features outdoor seating for those beautiful summer nights in the scenic city. Casual, family dining.

Cheeburger Cheeburger, 138 Market Street (across from the Aquarium), 265-4108, [50]. This 50s and 60s themed restaurant is part of a Florida based chain that "has been known to make burgers without cheese." Try your hand (or mouth?) at their "Famous Pounder" and if you finish it all by your lonesome, you'll be forever immortalized on their wall of fame. Featuring an Al La Carte menu of ingredients, your burger is unique to you. Artichoke Hearts? Got 'em. Guacamole, Roasted Red Peppers, Bleu Cheese - they've got those too. Shakes and Malts are also a favorite on their menus. Expect to spend around $7 - $9 per person. Casual, family dining.

Mojo Burrito, [51], 3815 St. Elmo Avenue, 822-MOJO. 3 years ago, Mojo Burrito became Chattanooga's first burrito shop and it was even opened by Chattanoogans! Located only minutes from downtown in Historic St. Elmo, Mojo Burrito makes some of the best, fresh, healthy, customizable food you can find. Expect to spend around $7 - $9 for your meal including a big fat burrito. Casual, family dining.

Qdoba Mexican Grill, 414 Market Street, 756-4777. Big, mean burritos prepared to your specs before your very eyes. Grab your big ol' burrito, a beer and head out to the patio to enjoy the scenic city out of doors. You'll spend up to $10 per person. Casual, family dining.

River Inn Restaurant, 2134 Suck Creek Road, 886-7476. A little Catfish house nestled alongside the river. In addition to Catfish, Flounder, Trout, Frog Legs, are available as well as the standard steak and chicken fare. Two large decks, one covered, the other screened and a large inside room with fireplace will give you plenty of room to enjoy your meal. Docking facilies available as well, so boats are an approved form of transport! Located about 20 minutes from downtown Chattanooga. Open from 12pm - 10pm F-Su and 5pm - 9pm Tu-Th. Closed Monday. Casual, family dining.

Buffalo Wild Wings. Casual, family dining.

Porker's BBQ. Casual, family dining.

Chili's Grill & Bar. Casual, family dining.

Wally's Restaurant.

T.G.I. Friday's. Casual, family dining.

Brainerd/Hamilton Place Mall

Acropolis.

Olive Garden.

Outback Steakhouse.

Applebee's.

Carrabba's Italian Grill.

California Pizza Kithcen.

Hooters.

Sweet Basil Thai Cuisine.

Na Go Ya.

Logan's Roadhouse.

Red Lobster Restaurant.

Cracker Barrel.

Golly Whoppers.

Kanpai of Tokyo.

Shogun.

Romano's Macaroni Grill.

Cheeburger Cheeburger.

Out of the Blue Bakery Cafe.

Hixson/Northgate Mall

Outback Steakhouse.

Applebee's.

Red Lobster Restaurant.

Ichiban Japanese Steak House.

Buffalo Wild Wings.

Splurge

Porter's Steakhouse, 827 Broad Street, 643-1240, [52]. One of three locations in the US, Porter's offers fine Chicago-style dining in the Sheraton Reed House in downtown Chattanooga. Fine dining at its best, with an excellent menu and service.

Terra Nostra Tapas and Wine, 105 Frazier Avenue, 634-0238, [53]. Featuring International Cuisine from Spain, Italy, France, North & South America, Asisa and the Caribbean, this unique restaurant is located in the heart of the Northshore. They offer over 60 wines by the glass and 80 by the bottle, along with indoor or outdoor seating. Tapas is often small dishes, so expect to order a number of dishes that average $7 a piece. Open Monday through Thursday from 4:30 - 10pm, Friday and Saturday from 4:30 - 11pm, and Sunday 4:30 - 9:30pm.

212 Market Restaurant, 265-1212, [54]. Located just where it says it is, only a block away from the Tennessee Aquarium! This elegant and comfortable restaurant features exquisitely prepared entrees, daily specials, and divine desserts. They also offer monthly cooking classes and wine dinners. The 10 year old restaurant has achieved AAA's 3-diamond rating and Mobile/Fodors' 3-stars.

Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar, 1011 Riverside Drive, 622-0122, [55]. Located 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga on the site of the old Sand Bar Restaurant, the Boathouse features oysters on the half shell along with plenty of Gulf Coast fare such as catfish and shrimp. On Mondays, Gulf Oysters are half price! Entrees average $15 - $18, excluding dipping into the raw bar. Open all week from 11am to 10pm, with their bar staying open until 11pm.

Back Inn Cafe, 265-5033 ext. 1. Located in the Bluff View Art District, upscale global cuisine with an extensive wine list is offered. Patio seating is availalbe, offering stunning views of the river. Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Hours vary between Summer and Winter.

Tony's Pasta Shop and Trattoria, 212-B High Street, 265-5033 ext. 6. Located in the carriage house of Bluff View Inn's Thompson House, with a classic Italian menu featuring fresh pastas, sauces, and breads. Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week.

Renaissance Commons, 402 East Second Street in the Bluff View Art District, 265-5033 ext. 4. Open only for Sunday brunch, this is quite possibly downtown's most elegant way to spend your morning. After brunch, visit the sculpture garden, play Bocce or browse the River Gallery.

Drink

Alcohol

Big River Grille & Brewing Works, 222 Broad Street (only a 1/2 block from the Tennessee Aquarium), 267-2739. Located in a large, renovated warehouse, Big River is a part of the Gordon Biersch family. The bar, separated from the restaurant by a beautiful brick wall, features pool tables and generous amounts of seating, both at the bar and at tables. Big River is also a brewery, creating their own award-winning ales and lagers and features seasonal specials as well. Expect it to very be busy on summer weekends.

Bud's Sports Bar - 5914 Lee Highway, telephone 499-9878. Bud's is probably the best place in town to grab a beer and watch a game on the television. The lively crowd will keep you entertained even with the television doesn't.

Riverside Wine and Spirits, 600 Manufacturer's Road, 267-4305. [57] An excellent liquor store only a few blocks from the Northshore heart of Frazier Avenue. Wines and spirits from around the world. From Old Crow Whiskey to the best of wines. Beer, including kegs also available.

Coffee/Tea

Stone Cup Roasting Company, [58]. Located in the Northshore District, the Stone Cup serves coffee that is freshly roasted one site once a week. They serve more than cofee, though, with a menu covering all your day's meals. Be sure to try one of their 5 unique Stone Cup Signature Blends!

GreyFriar's Coffee and Tea, Located at Jack's Alley in Downtown Chattanooga.

Splurge

Bluff View Inn, 265-5033 ext. 2 or 800-725-8338. [60] A beautiful Bed and Breakfast located in the Bluff View Art District with sixteen unique rooms spread through three historic homes. Prices range from $105 - $240 depending on when you stay and which category room you pick. All rates include a full gourment breakfast. Themed packages are available, complete with gift certificates and/or tickets for area attractions. The cancellation policy is very strict, requiring at least eight days notice.

Chanticleer Inn, 1300 Mockingbird Lane, Lookout Mountain, GA, 706-820-2002, Fax 706-820-7976, [61]. Constructed of mountain stone in the 1930s and renovated in 2002, the Chanticleer Inn is charming and romantic getaway nestled atop Lookout Mountain. Offering 17 rooms and 5 cottages, this is the perfect getaway that is only minutes away from the best attractions in Chattanooga. Several rooms offer jacuzzi tubs and/or gas log fireplaces. Rates range from $100 to $180. All prices include a full breakfast and afternoon coffee, tea, and cookies.

Contact

Telephone

Local Phone Numbers - The Area Code for Southeastern Tennessee which includes Chattanooga, is 423. All phone numbers listed are listed as you would dial them locally.

Internet

(Many of the city's parks have WiFi hotspots in them. See WirelessInTheParks.com for more information regarding this venture.)

Coolidge Park - The area centering around the Carousel is a Wi-Fi Hotspot thanks to the City of Chattanooga and AirNet Group. It uses 802.11b and 802.11a. WEP security is turned off.

Miller Plaza - Using 802.11a/b on an open free network with WEP security turned off. Provided by AirNet Group.

Grey Friars Coffee - Using 802.11a/b. SSID "Greyfriar24"

Chattanooga Choo Choo/Holiday Inn - Located at 1400 Market Street.

Panera Bread -

Located near the Target in the Hamilton Place Mall Area. 1810 Gunbarrel Road.

McDonald's - Service is $9.95/day or $29.95/month through the provider Wayport.

2003 Dayton Blvd in Red Bank

4502 Rossville Blvd, 6220 Lee Hwy

1117 E 3rd Street. This location very close to Erlanger Hospital and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus. (However, it is also the slowest McDonald's on the face of the earth.)

Amigo's Mexican Restaurant - Located in Hixson at 5450 Highway 153.

Newspapers

Chattanooga Times Free Press. This is the city's mainstream newspaper providing local, regional, and national news.

USA Today. On sale in many places throughout the city, providing news on a national level only.

Radio

WUTC. Transmitting at 88.1FM and located on the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus, WUTC is a National Public Radio (NPR) affliate. When not playing NPR programs, the format is a mix blues, jazz and alternative music.

WAWL. Transmitting at 91.5FM and located on the Chattanooga State Technical Community College campus, WAWL's format is a very wide music of mainly alternative music.

Get Out

Nearby: (While they may not neccessarily be huge tourist attractions, they are nearby)

Ocoee, TN. A popular destination for water sports such as white water rafting and kayaking, as well as fishing.

Cleveland, TN. 30 minutes North of Chattanooga. M&M Mars has a plant here.

Dalton, GA. Home of SHAW Industries, one of the world's largest carpet manufacturers.

Stay safe

The Chattanooga Police Department operates a police precinct located on Walnut Street in Downtown Chattanooga.

The Chattanooga Police Department's Traffic Division uses patrol cars without emergency lights on their roof. Instead they have numerous blue lights mounted in the front grill and rear window.

Cope

Medical

The Chattanooga area has three major hosptials:

Memorial Hosptial, 2525 de Sales Avenue, 495-2525, [62]. Their main hospital is located minutes from downtown Chattanooga. Memorial is a part of the Catholic Health Initiatives.

Memorial North Park Hosptial, General Number: 495-7100, Patient Information 495-7124, Patient Room Direct 495-7+ROOM#. Located in the Hixson community in the North part of Chattanooga.

Memorial North Shore Health Center, 756-1506. Located West of Coolidge Park off of Cherokee Blvd. They are open M-Fr, 8:30am to 4:30pm.

Erlanger Hospital, 975 East Third Street, 778-7000, [63]. Their main hospital, the Baroness Campus, is located just a block from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus, minutes from downtown. Erlanger is a non-profit, academic teaching center and is a Level One Trauma Center for adults. Erlanger maintains the LifeForce Air Ambulance, the region's only air medical service.

T.C. Thompson Children's Hospital, 778-6011. Located next door to Erlanger, T.C. Thompson's is the only hospital in the region with immediate availability of pediatric subspecialists, providing a special environment of healing for all children.

Erlanger North Campus, 778-7811. The North Campus is located in the nextdoor city of Red Bank North of Downtown Chattanooga.

Law Enforcement

Hamilton County Sheriff's Department, For matters outside of the city limits. 209-7000

Hamilton County Jail, The Hamilton County Sheriff's Department administers the jail. For information, contact 209-7050

Weather

Summer (Jun-Aug), average temperature of 80°F (27°C), with maximums in the low 100s (38°). Scattered thundershowers quite often appear and disappear almost as quickly, sometimes dropping almost an inch of rain in 30 minutes or less.

Autumn (Sep-Nov), average temperature of 61°F (16°C).

Winter (Dec-Feb), average temperature of 40°F (4.5°C), with a number of days below freezing (32°F, 0°C). Very little snow or ice in the valley, but fairly often in the higher elevations such as Lookout and Signal Mountains. Almost any amount of snow or ice in the valley will stop nearly all activity in the city.